Botanical Overview
Chelidonium majus, commonly known as greater celandine, celandine, or tetterwort, is a member of the Papaveraceae family. It is native to Europe, Western Asia, and North Africa. The medicinal parts used are primarily the aerial parts and the root.
Energetics
The herb is traditionally considered cooling in temperature and drying in moisture. It has a bitter and acrimonious taste and is generally relaxing in tonicity.
Primary Actions
- Anti-inflammatory
- Choleretic (promotes bile flow)
- Hepatoprotective
- Spasmolytic
Indications
Western
- Dyspepsia
- Indigestion
- Jaundice
- Liver disorders
- Spasmodic pain
- Warts
- Skin eruptions
Syndromes
- Hepatic insufficiency
- Biliary dyskinesia
- Chronic hepatitis
TCM
No specific traditional uses documented.
Ayurveda
No specific traditional uses documented.
Unani
No specific traditional uses documented.
Constituents & Mechanisms
Chelidonium majus contains notable alkaloids including chelidonine, chelerythrine, sanguinarine, and protopine, which are responsible for its pharmacological effects such as choleretic and spasmolytic actions.
Dosage & Preparations
- Tincture 1:5 40% ethanol, 1-3 mL 2-3 times daily
- Infusion: 1-2 g dried herb per cup, 2 times daily
- Standardized extracts with alkaloid content; dosage varies
Safety & Contraindications
Chelidonium majus should be used cautiously due to potential hepatotoxicity. Internal use is contraindicated during pregnancy and lactation. It is also contraindicated in cases of liver disease without medical supervision. Topical application may cause irritation or allergic reactions. Avoid combining with other hepatotoxic drugs to prevent additive toxicity.
Astrological Correspondences
No reliably sourced planetary or elemental rulers identified for Chelidonium majus in current authoritative references.
Selected References
- Chelidonii herba – Chelidonium majus L., European Medicines Agency Herbal Monograph (2015)
- Chelidonium majus – greater celandine, Plant For A Future
- Chelidonium majus: Safety and Efficacy, NCCIH (2022)
- Phytochemistry and pharmacology of Chelidonium majus, Smith et al. (2019)